Spline Adapter Extractor Using Threaded Mandrel for Non-Destructive Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for removing a spline adapter from a housing often result in damage to the adapter, preventing diagnostic analysis due to the inability to maintain contact with the housing during extraction.
Innovation Solution
An extractor comprising a drive rod and mandrel that threadingly engage to bias the spline adapter away from the housing contact area, allowing for radial compression and non-destructive removal by extending through the spline adapter bore and housing bore.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional removal methods are used, then the spline adapter can be removed from the housing, but the spline adapter is damaged or destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mandrel as an intermediary device that fits inside the spline adapter and provides a controlled extraction mechanism. The mandrel with its slots and drive rod configuration allows the spline adapter to be pulled from the housing in a controlled manner that prevents damage to the adapter itself, while still achieving the removal function.
Solution Approach 2:
The mandrel is segmented with slots that allow it to compress radially during insertion and then expand to engage the spline adapter. This segmentation enables the mandrel to transition between different states (compressed for insertion, expanded for engagement) to facilitate damage-free removal.
2Productivity
If the spline adapter is removed traditionally, then it can be extracted from the housing, but diagnostic evidence is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The mandrel acts as a protective intermediary that maintains the spline adapter's structural integrity during removal. By providing a controlled extraction path and distributing forces evenly through the adapter, the mandrel prevents the damage that would otherwise destroy diagnostic evidence while still enabling efficient removal.
3Ease of operation
If the mandrel is inserted into the spline adapter, then radial compression occurs for insertion, but the head portion diameter must decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The mandrel's head portion is designed to be dynamic in dimension - it can radially compress to a smaller diameter for insertion through the spline adapter bore, then expand to a larger diameter to engage and grip the adapter. This dynamic shape change enables both easy insertion and secure engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical parameters of the mandrel's head portion (specifically its radial dimension) are changed during the operation. The head compresses radially during insertion and then expands after insertion to engage the spline adapter, utilizing parameter changes to overcome geometric constraints.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the removal of the spline adapter without damage, allowing for forensic analysis and improved diagnostic capabilities by maintaining coaxial alignment and applying uniform force.
Implementation Method 1
a mandrel that defines a mandrel bore with an inner diameter that engages the exterior threads of the drive rod to threadingly receive the drive rod
Data Source
AI summary
An extractor for removing a spline adapter from a housing. The extractor includes a drive rod, and a mandrel that threadingly receives the drive rod. The drive rod is adapted to extend through the mandrel and the spline adapter so as to contact a contact area of the housing to bias the mandrel and the spline adapter in a direction away from the contact area as the drive rod is threaded through the mandrel.